Traveling in China: Cough and Phlegm Concerns During Business Trip
Currently on a business trip in China, worried about developing pneumonia? Hello Dr. Jian, I am currently on a business trip in China. Three days ago, I started experiencing symptoms of a cold and cough. I have brought along fever-reducing medication and symptomatic treatment, ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: If you have obvious symptoms such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, and sore throat, it resembles a cold. However, if there are no significant cold symptoms and the fever persists for more than three days, it may indicate pneumonia or influenza. You can visit a nearby hos...[Read More] Traveling in China: Cough and Phlegm Concerns During Business Trip
Understanding Chest X-Ray Findings: What Does Overlapping Shadows in Left Lung Mean?
Health Check Report Hello, this year the company conducted a health check, and the report included a chest X-ray examination that described "suspected overlapping shadows in the left lower lung." What does this mean? However, last year's health check report showed ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: There is a shadow in the left lower lung that cannot be determined as normal or abnormal. Further examination is required. Please visit the pulmonology outpatient clinic for further consultation and examination. Best regards.[Read More] Understanding Chest X-Ray Findings: What Does Overlapping Shadows in Left Lung Mean?
Understanding Shortness of Breath: Insights for Asthma and Exercise
Shortness of breath? Hello, doctor. I have a history of asthma and I smoke, which often triggers my asthma attacks, but I can't seem to quit smoking. I have never exercised before, but recently I thought I would try jogging to see if it could improve my lung function and ast...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Please visit a pulmonologist for an evaluation to determine if it is uncontrolled asthma or another issue. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Shortness of Breath: Insights for Asthma and Exercise
Is It Normal to Still Cough After Pneumonia Treatment?
Is it normal to still have a persistent cough even though pneumonia is improving? About a month ago, a chest X-ray revealed an unclear white shadow in the right upper lobe, but no treatment was initiated. A week ago, a follow-up chest X-ray was performed, and the shadow had signi...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: Further follow-up is necessary. If the cough persists, there may be other underlying causes. Please consult your pulmonologist to determine if sputum analysis or other tests are needed. Thank you. Sincerely, Jian Shun Tian.[Read More] Is It Normal to Still Cough After Pneumonia Treatment?
Severe Throat Pain Radiating to Chest: Possible Causes and Solutions
Sore throat radiating to the chest? Hello, doctor. I suddenly experienced pain in my shoulder and neck in the early morning, and later it turned into a sore throat that radiated to my chest. The pain has been constant and severe, making it impossible for me to sleep. This pain do...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: Based on the described symptoms, there are several possibilities. Please visit the pulmonology outpatient clinic for further diagnosis and treatment. Thank you.[Read More] Severe Throat Pain Radiating to Chest: Possible Causes and Solutions
Should You Get a Low-Dose CT Scan for Lung Nodules?
Do nodules require a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan of the lungs? Last year, during a health check-up, a chest X-ray revealed an abnormality in one lung, prompting me to return to the hospital for a follow-up. The doctor arranged for a second set of images that day (the f...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: It is important to inform your physician about your smoking history. It is recommended to have a chest X-ray every six months, and you may consider undergoing a CT scan. Please discuss this further with your pulmonologist. Thank you.[Read More] Should You Get a Low-Dose CT Scan for Lung Nodules?
Managing Tuberculosis Treatment Transition from China to Taiwan: Key Questions
Questions Regarding Changing Treatment Countries for Tuberculosis Hello Dr. Jian, I am a Taiwanese expatriate who has been working in China for many years, and my spouse is Chinese. Recently, I was diagnosed with a positive tuberculosis (TB) test due to persistent coughing in Aug...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
1. Whether there is health insurance; if there is no health insurance, treatment can be provided without insurance status. 2. Whether the individual holds Republic of China (Taiwan) nationality. 3. Whether there is a bacterial strain identification report, whether there is a drug...[Read More] Managing Tuberculosis Treatment Transition from China to Taiwan: Key Questions
Understanding Sudden Chest Pain: Should You Worry About Lung Cancer?
A dull, aching pain similar to a pulling sensation to the left of the right nipple? Hello, I experienced sudden pain on the left side of my right nipple and the upper part of my right chest yesterday and today, but it lasts only about 1 to 2 seconds. Should I get this checked? Co...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: Chest pain that is not typical for lung cancer based on age can be initially evaluated with an X-ray.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Chest Pain: Should You Worry About Lung Cancer?
Understanding Chest Pain and Persistent Cough After a Cold
Pain with deep breathing? Hello Doctor: Last month, after having a cold, I have been experiencing a persistent itchy throat and dry cough for the past month. I have taken both Western and Chinese medicine, which have slightly alleviated the cough, but I still have a dry cough. Wh...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: The presence of significant pain points makes the likelihood of lung issues lower. Low-dose computed tomography is used for screening early lung tumors; however, at 26 years old, and without a family history, it is currently not recommended. Nevertheless, if the persistent...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Persistent Cough After a Cold
Understanding and Treating Pleural Thickening in the Upper Lobes
The treatment for pleural thickening in both upper lobes of the lungs typically involves addressing the underlying cause. Management options may include: 1. **Observation**: If the thickening is asymptomatic and not causing any complications, regular monitoring may be sufficient...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: There is no correlation between the two. Pleural thickening does not require treatment and can be monitored regularly. Best regards.[Read More] Understanding and Treating Pleural Thickening in the Upper Lobes
Understanding Chest Tightness After Drinking Cold Beverages
Chest tightness? Hello, Doctor. A few days ago, I drank about half a cup of cold alcohol (4% concentration), and I started feeling a tight and uncomfortable sensation in the middle of my chest. It felt like my chest was constricting, and I also felt a similar discomfort in the up...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: At 24 years old, heart issues are likely minimal. It may be related to esophagitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Please consult a gastroenterologist to determine if an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is necessary. If there are no issues, then follow up with a...[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness After Drinking Cold Beverages
Understanding Lung Function Tests and Restrictive Ventilation Disorders
Regarding pulmonary function tests and restrictive ventilatory impairment? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you some questions. I previously underwent pulmonary function tests at the Veterans General Hospital, which revealed a restrictive lung function impairment, but the cause...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
If you are overweight or have insufficient inhalation, you may be diagnosed with restrictive ventilatory impairment. For detailed information, you should discuss your pulmonary function indicators with your pulmonologist.[Read More] Understanding Lung Function Tests and Restrictive Ventilation Disorders
Understanding Long-Term Chest Discomfort and Occasional Pain: A Guide
Long-term chest tightness with occasional chest pain? I have experienced chest tightness since childhood, but it wasn't severe enough for me to seek medical attention. Seven years ago, while running from the second floor to the first, I suddenly experienced intense chest pai...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Based on the description, it seems more like a cardiology issue. Please visit the cardiology outpatient clinic for an examination, and then the cardiologist will provide further recommendations. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Long-Term Chest Discomfort and Occasional Pain: A Guide
Understanding Persistent Throat and Chest Discomfort: A Patient's Journey
Physical discomfort? Hello, Doctor. About a month and a half ago, I suspected that I inhaled some debris through my nose, and since then, I have been unable to clear it. I didn't pay much attention to it, but the next day, I developed a strong sensation of a foreign body in ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Based on the symptoms described, it appears to be a nasal issue. It could be due to allergies, foreign bodies, sinusitis, or other conditions. Please visit an otolaryngologist for further examination and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Throat and Chest Discomfort: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Mild chest pain? My grandfather used to smoke but quit a long time ago. Recently, he has been experiencing chest pain. Initially, the pain was brief, but now it has returned, specifically near the right nipple. He has previously seen a pulmonologist and had X-rays and MRIs done, ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: If you experience persistent pain near the nipple, you can consult a general surgeon, and it may also be advisable to see a cardiologist to rule out any heart-related issues.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Lung Issues: What to Do About Suspicious Findings
Pulmonary issues? Hello Dr. Jian, A year ago, during a health check-up, I underwent a chest X-ray and a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan. The report indicated suspected pulmonary tuberculosis (I have not experienced any cough or symptoms). I have been followed up in the ou...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
(1) The three small nodules later connected are likely not tumors; they could be pulmonary tuberculosis. A biopsy and bronchoscopy can be performed. If these two procedures are not done, or if they are done without conclusive results, a trial treatment for tuberculosis can be con...[Read More] Understanding Lung Issues: What to Do About Suspicious Findings
Understanding Diaphragm Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
"There is occasional dull pain in the diaphragm." Hello Doctor, I apologize for the interruption. I am a 36-year-old male, who does not smoke or drink, and I do not have hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia. For the past year, I have been experiencing a dull pain n...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Pain near the xiphoid process, with no cardiac or gastrointestinal issues. A chest X-ray (both frontal and lateral views) is needed to check for any lung or chest wall problems, and an abdominal ultrasound should be performed to assess for liver or gallbladder issues. If there is...[Read More] Understanding Diaphragm Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and Remedies for Your Symptoms
Chest tightness? I have been feeling a tightness in my chest lately, but it doesn't hurt. Taking deep breaths makes me feel a bit better, and I also have a cough that feels like I have phlegm.
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: Please visit the pulmonology outpatient clinic for an examination. Based on the examination results, please consult the physician for the next steps in management. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and Remedies for Your Symptoms
Understanding Chest Pain: When to See a Specialist for Relief
Chest tightness or pain? Recently, I have been experiencing frequent chest tightness and a sensation of pressure in my throat, as if I need to burp but can't. When I try to burp, it feels like there are bubbles that want to come up but don't. This has been going on for ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: Based on the symptoms, it may be a gastroesophageal reflux issue. Please first consult a pulmonologist. If there are no issues, you may seek further advice from the pulmonologist regarding whether to see a gastroenterologist, cardiologist, or another specialist. Thank you....[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: When to See a Specialist for Relief
Can Ginseng and Chicken Essence Help Patients on TB Medication?
Inquiry about supplements while taking tuberculosis medication? Hello, doctor. My father was hospitalized a few months ago due to pleural effusion, and after draining the fluid, he was diagnosed with tuberculosis (tuberculous pleuritis). He started taking the prescribed anti-tube...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Ginseng may cause a tendency to cough up blood; however, if there is no hemoptysis or lung cavitary lesions or bronchiectasis, it should be acceptable. Chicken essence should not pose any issues. Sincerely, Jian Shun Tian.[Read More] Can Ginseng and Chicken Essence Help Patients on TB Medication?